The many varieties of air hoses come in a variety of materials and diameters. Determining the best hose for your needs is not as difficult as one might think. With the proper specifications and information you can make an educated decision based on your own needs and preferences. A PVC High Pressure air hose is one of the most popular types of air hoses due to their durability and superior performance, but which one is right for you?
The main considerations to think about when selecting an air hose for your application are the material then it is made out of, the internal diameter of the hose itself, and the outside diameter needed. You will also want to keep in mind the working environment, sort of task being performed, distance from the compressor to the hose and, of course, budget, too. For example, if you are using a heavy-duty air hose in a manufacturing setting then you may not want a low-pressure version because they can cause damage to delicate machinery. Low-pressure hoses are also not appropriate for spraying chemicals or cleaning large surfaces. Another consideration is the external diameter of the air hose itself, which is an indication of its ability to carry sufficient air pressure. While external diameter is an indication of flexibility, it may be influenced by the size and shape of your nozzle, so it is important to talk with an air hose manufacturer or compressor sales person to discuss which external diameter is best for your application.
One type of flexible air hose that is becoming increasingly popular in applications including manufacturing, cleaning, welding, and moving is the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) air hose. Although there are a few different grades of PVC, the highest grade is referred to as Schedule 40, which is able to withstand pressures up to four hundred pounds per square inch. In addition, PVC is recyclable and considered one of the greenest materials available to consumers.